Unlike the creamy, sometimes heavy consistency of standard whey protein, clear whey offers a smooth, hydrating alternative, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a lighter option after a rigorous gym session.
Clear whey protein is typically made from whey protein isolate (WPI), which is known for its high protein content and low levels of fat and carbohydrates. WPI is also easier to digest than other forms of whey protein, making it suitable for those with lactose sensitivity.
If you're someone who struggles with traditional whey protein, a clear version could be an easier alternative for hitting your protein goals.
What should you look for in a clear whey protein?
A high-quality clear whey protein should have a short and recognisable list of ingredients. Look for products where whey protein isolate (WPI) takes the lead. Ideally, the protein content should hover around 20 grams per serving, although some brands climb closer to 30.
Sweeteners and flavourings are another consideration. Natural sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit extract are preferable over artificial options, which can sometimes cause digestive discomfort.
And don’t overlook the importance of added benefits. Some clear whey proteins are fortified with essential amino acids (EAAs) or branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), enhancing muscle recovery and reducing soreness. Others include added vitamins and minerals, providing a holistic boost to your post-workout nutrition.
Finally, clarity is key - quite literally. The hallmark of a high-quality clear whey protein is its ability to mix seamlessly with water, producing a clear, non-cloudy drink that’s just as aesthetically pleasing as it is nutritious.
We've rounded up all of the best clear whey proteins below
Foodspring Clear Whey
A new summery twist on the brand's original bestselling Whey Protein, this Clear Whey is ideal for post-gym protein shakes when your appetite isn't quite back yet but you know you're in need of a macros boost. Less of a traditional protein shake and more of a refreshing drink, it's a low-lactose option that's easier to digest and comes with 26g of protein per portion.
Buy now £34.99, Amazon
Warrior Fruity Clear Whey Isolate
One of the most popular options around, the Warrior Fruity Clear Whey Isolate has 25g of protein per serving and comes in a range of vibrant flavours including Blue Raspberry, Fruit Punch, Pineapple, and Sour Apple. It was designed to offer a fruity new twist without the heavy style of traditional protein: best for when you want a rapid digesting protein to hit without the bloat and in a nice, easy-to-drink, hydrating fruit taste.
Buy now £19.99, Amazon
PhD Smart Clear whey
PhD's Smart Clear whey is the answer for those seeking a more refreshing, clear and delicious whey protein isolate without the milky taste and texture. Delivering a high-quality 20g of protein per serving with less than 1g of sugar and only 85 kcals per serve, it's a top choice with a great flavour to match. PhD's Smart Clear Whey is suitable for anyone choosing to increase their protein intake, whether it be to increase or support the maintenance of muscle mass or recover from exercise.
Buy now £18.23, Amazon
Applied Nutrition Clear Whey Protein Premium Protein Powder Strawberry & Raspberry
Using ultra-hydrolysed whey protein isolate, the Applied Nutrition Clear Whey Protein Premium Protein Powder is a delicious, light and replenishing protein drink that's more like a fruit juice than a milkshake. With all the key benefits of a normal protein shake, this clear whey protein is absorbed rapidly and contains only 90 calories per 25g serving. It's packed with over 21g of protein, has only 1g of carbs and has less than 0.25g of sugar and fat.
Buy now £31.18, Amazon
Women's Best Clear Whey Isolate
With 25g of protein per serving, this Women's Best Clear Whey Isolate is low in lactose, fat and carbs and is perfect for female athletes or anyone looking to hit their protein goals easily. Available in a range of sweet flavours, it's ideal for hot summer days and is light and easy to digest. The powder has also been designed to be mixed with less water than your typical protein shake, without compromising protein goals.
Buy now £27.89, Women's Best
Optimum Nutrition Clear Plant Protein Isolate Lime Sorbet
Optimum Nutrition's new clear protein formula comes in two light flavours. This entirely plant-based protein isolate contains 20g of high-quality protein per serving to support muscle growth and repair as well as 3.6 g of BCAAs and zero sugar. A refreshing option, it offers all of the benefits without the milky texture if you're looking for a whey alternative. It's also renowned for being one of the easiest to mix without any unwanted textures.
Buy now £17.55, Holland & Barrett
The Protein Works Clear Diet Whey Protein
Available in a variety of well-balanced, perfectly sweetened flavours that contain zero sugar content, The Protein Works' Clear Diet Whey Protein is made using an ultra-premium protein. Containing essential vitamins and minerals to help support immune function and overall well-being, each shake is more nutritious than your average juice and with less than 82 calories, it's great for those on a weight loss journey.
Buy now £23.49, The Protein Works
ESN Isoclear Whey Protein Isolate
Fresh, clear and full of proteins, this refreshing protein drink was built without sugar, fat or lactose, so it's perfect for quickly supplying your muscles with protein, meeting your protein requirements or adding variety to your protein game.
With up to 25 g protein per serving, it's for ideal muscle support and comes in 21 delicious flavours - so you'll never get bored of the same one.
Buy now £44.99, Amazon
Bulk Clear Whey Isolate
If you’re looking for a high-protein, low-sugar shake without the milky taste and texture, Bulk's Clear Whey Isolate is a great option. Made using ultra-premium hydrolysed whey protein isolate, this refreshing food supplement offers all of the protein benefits without quite so much of the substance.
Each serving contains 20g of protein and just 86 calories. It’s low in sugar (0.1g per serving) sugar and low in fat (0.2g per serving). The clean, clear nature of the protein powder makes it as easy to mix as it is to drink.
Buy now £23.49, Bulk
MyProtein Clear Whey Diet
My Protein's Clear Whey Diet is a refreshingly light and impressively juicy alternative to your everyday protein shake. Packed with at least 17g of protein per serving, it's low in sugar and has less than 100 calories per serving.
The powder also has added ingredients including chromium, BioPerine and green tea extract designed to support increased muscle mass without the extra calories. If you're cutting but still need to hit those protein goals, this is a great clear whey protein to plump for.
Buy now £17.13, MyProtein
Verdict
When it comes to the best clear whey proteins, Foodspring's Clear Whey Protein stands out as the best. It mixes effortlessly, ensuring a clear, non-cloudy drink and provides essential amino acids for optimal muscle recovery.
